Adolescent parasuicide in the Foyle area

Objectives: Renewed scientific and media interest in suicidal behaviour has resulted in a number of initiatives examining and defining this complex and tragic phenomenon. However, in comparison to the study of adult suicidal behaviour, that of adolescents is still under researched, This study aimed to identify the extent and nature of parasuicide in young people under 17 years of age in the Foyle area in the 28 month period up to and including April 1997. Method: The psychiatric assessments of all those admitted to hospital as the result of parasuicide during this period were examined. A psychosocial and clinical profile of this group of young people was then constructed. Any reported stressors recorded in the assessments were noted, and an attempt was made to 'track' contact with helping agencies in each case during the months immediately before and after admission. Results: One hundred and twenty four young people were admitted during the period under review, the vast majority following an overdose. Conclusions: Family conflict, family illness and bullying were the three most frequently recorded stressors, Two-thirds had no apparent contact with services in the three months prior to admission, and of these, half were not referred on to specialist services after they had been discharged from hospital.